Fundamental Concepts and Skills for Nursing Test Bank

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: For an older patient with heart failure prescribed digoxin (Lanoxin) 125 mcg by mouth three times a week, the nurse should administer the drug as prescribed while monitoring for manifestations of toxicity. Digoxin is a medication commonly used in heart failure, but it has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning that the difference between a therapeutic dose and a toxic dose is small. Older patients are more susceptible to digoxin toxicity due to age-related changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, as well as potential comorbidities. Therefore, close monitoring for signs and symptoms of digoxin toxicity, such as nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, and cardiac arrhythmias, is essential. It is important for the nurse to be vigilant for any early signs of toxicity and communicate any concerns to the healthcare provider promptly.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client who is scheduled for temporary pacemaker insertion is to use battery-powered equipment. This is because temporary pacemakers are powered by an external power source, typically a battery pack worn by the client. Therefore, it is important for the client to be aware of this and ensure that they have access to the necessary battery-powered equipment at home for the pacemaker to function properly. The other options are not appropriate instructions for a client with a temporary pacemaker.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: For an older patient with heart failure prescribed digoxin (Lanoxin) 125 mcg by mouth three times a week, the nurse should administer the drug as prescribed while monitoring for manifestations of toxicity. Digoxin is a medication commonly used in heart failure, but it has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning that the difference between a therapeutic dose and a toxic dose is small. Older patients are more susceptible to digoxin toxicity due to age-related changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, as well as potential comorbidities. Therefore, close monitoring for signs and symptoms of digoxin toxicity, such as nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, and cardiac arrhythmias, is essential. It is important for the nurse to be vigilant for any early signs of toxicity and communicate any concerns to the healthcare provider promptly.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A beta blocker would likely be prescribed for an older adult client diagnosed with cardiomyopathy and a cardiac dysrhythmia. Beta blockers are commonly used to manage dysrhythmias by slowing down the heart rate, reducing the workload of the heart, and improving its efficiency. They can also help in preventing arrhythmias and improving overall cardiac function in individuals with cardiomyopathy. Additionally, beta blockers have been shown to reduce mortality and improve symptoms in patients with various cardiac conditions. Therefore, it is a suitable medication choice for this client's condition.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: While it is important for individuals with cardiomyopathy to maintain a well-balanced diet that includes adequate protein, stating that increasing dietary protein specifically helps with cardiac cell repair may not be entirely accurate. The primary focus for individuals with cardiomyopathy should be on overall heart-healthy choices such as monitoring sodium intake, avoiding high-fat, high-cholesterol foods, and following a well-rounded diet plan. Protein can be a part of this plan but it should not be emphasized as the main component for cardiac cell repair. Consulting with a dietitian who can provide personalized guidance and recommendations based on the individual's specific condition is crucial.